What to Expect

What Does an Initial Visit Involve?

Your first chiropractic visit is generally 45 to 60 minutes long. After filling out some general information forms, your chiropractor will ask you some questions regarding your specific problem and about your general health.

A physical examination will be performed. This examination will include range of motion testing where you will be asked to move in specific directions, several orthopaedic tests and palpation of the specific area of complaint. You may be asked to change into a hospital-type gown for better access to the problem area.

The health practitioner’s main goal of the initial visit is to determine if it is joint, muscle, ligament or tendon that is causing the problem. Once that has been determined, the chiropractor will know better how to treat the condition. You and the chiropractor will then discuss your diagnosis, the risks and benefits of treatments, and the proposed course of action.

While the chiropractor may very well treat you on your first visit, occasionally she needs more information. The chiropractor may refer you for x-rays or to another health professional for conditions that are outside the scope of chiropractic.

A chiropractic treatment typically includes chiropractic mobilizations or adjustments, and may also include physical therapy modalities such as ultrasound or interferential current, exercise programs, and nutritional and postural advice.

If at any time you have questions or are uncomfortable during the initial or any subsequent visits, please do not hesitate to talk to the chiropractor.

What Does a Subsequent Visit Involve?

A subsequent visit with the chiropractor is generally 15 to 30 minutes. On the second visit, the chiropractor will further discuss your condition and provide you with a personalized findings report that you may take home and read through at your own pace. This way, if you have any questions or concerns, you can write them down and bring them with you to your next visit so that you may discuss them with your chiropractor.

Once you feel clear about what is causing your discomfort, the chiropractor will proceed by asking about any changes in your condition. She will then check your spine or other area of complaint and determine what is required for today’s treatment. She may use a physical modality, such as ultrasound or interferential current, to help decrease pain, reduce inflammation, or relax the muscles. In addition, she will often perform mobilizations or adjustments to the affected joints. The chiropractor also focuses on educating patients about healthy lifestyle changes in order to prevent further problems. This may include, but is not limited to, advice regarding exercise, posture, sleep habits, nutrition and stress management. If at any time you are uncomfortable or have any questions, please speak with your chiropractor.